Alex Jones and Vernon Kay returned to presenting duties on The One Show on Monday, July 27, following a lengthy break. The evening's episode featured actress Samantha Morton and Fake or Fortune's Fiona Bruce and Phillip Mould discussing their latest projects.
Tribute to Bill Oddie
As the show drew to a close, the programme paid tribute to TV presenter and comedian Bill Oddie, who died at the age of 85. Vernon Kay told viewers: "Before we go, we were sad to hear of the death of Bill Oddie today, someone who appeared on The One Show many times." He added: "As well as starring in The Goodies, Bill also went on to present Springwatch. Our thoughts are with his friends and family."
Agent's Statement
Bill Oddie's death was announced earlier that day by his agent David Foster. His statement read: "It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of Bill Oddie, the country's best-loved birder. Bill was a multi-talented celebrity – wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. Yet it was never fame that he valued. Instead he encouraged us to respect and protect the environment."
Foster continued that Oddie "taught us the wonder of" the environment. "He protested, lobbied and campaigned for it. He led the way and people of all ages and backgrounds responded to his call. And such a massive contribution to conservation will never be forgotten."
Chris Packham's Tribute
Chris Packham, Oddie's successor on Springwatch, wrote on social media: "Sadly we've not only lost a goodie, we've lost one of the besties." He said: "A renegade polymath with binoculars and a beard, Bill was invariably funny and occasionally furious. He loved birds and loathed those who harmed them. He was delightfully unpredictable, sparky, smart and at times a bit spiky." Packham added: "Critically he really knew his stuff, and his passion was true - he didn't just pick up his binoculars on telly, he went birding whenever he could. So he was genuine and that's why we loved him."
Bill Oddie was made an OBE in 2003 for services to wildlife conservation. He co-presented the first four series of the BBC's annual Springwatch from 2005, as well as spin-off Autumnwatch. The One Show airs weeknights on BBC One at 7pm.
